WEN is a widely popular brand offering a variety of terrific electric drill presses since 1951. The Wen 4214 model is comparatively newly launched; it started in 2014. In fact, this particular WEN press got loads of positive reviews and recommendations.
The Wen 4214 design features an infinitely variable speed setting that makes it extremely flexible, in addition to its powerful performance. This is all detailed in the review below.
Let’s start with this WEN 4214 review and explore its specifications, perks, drawbacks, affordability, and much more.
Features:
• Mechanical adjustment of the variable speed.
• Digital display of the rate by LED.
• Rigid cast-iron frame.
• Work light and laser X-lock for precise positioning.
• Adjustable worktable; extends outward and tilts up to 45º on both sides.
• Slotted table for mounting vises and clamps.
• Lockable linear depth stops for accurate and repeatable drilling.
• Strong and durable 2/3 HP, 5 Amp motor.
Technical Specifications
| Item Name | WEN 4214 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press |
| Manufacturer | WEN |
| Speed Range | 580-3200 RPM |
| Swing | 12-Inch |
| Weight | 89 pounds |
| Material | cast iron, steel plastic |
| Warranty | 2-year warranty |
WEN 4214 Unbox Review and Setup
This is my unbox, setup and review of the WEN 4214 12" drill press.
WEN 4214 Review: Key Features
The first things we evaluated are the most crucial features of this powerful tool, the ones that might convince you to buy it as long as it meets your job requirements.
Power
The Wen 4214 drill press has an inductive motor with a power of 2/3 HP and a power rating of 5 A. In simple terms, this is a decent tool that is powerful enough to penetrate through a wide range of materials, from thin wood to thick sheet metal.
This model is also great for creating accurate holes in wood and metal parts that look great finished with the machine.
Speed
The Wen 4214 has a variable speed that allows setting the tool to meet specific drilling requirements. Metal, for example, requires a slower drilling speed. It can drill other materials such as wood at a higher speed without any problems.
The item we review offers a minimum speed of 580 RPM and a maximum of 3200 RPM. It makes it very versatile and covers a wide range of options. Once you choose a certain speed level, you can lock the drill press into position.
It helps you save time because you won’t have to keep resetting it.
Performance
This product is easy to use and reliable. The tool performs precisely what it was designed to do. Whatever you need to drill, from soft pine to steel, you will achieve your goals with this drill press. With its high-performance motor, you’ll get clean, smooth holes every time.
Another fantastic feature is that you don’t need to hand-move the belts to adjust the speeds of the drill. You can do this by setting the control knob on the handle placed precisely for this operation.
The speed coverage is wide enough to include any project you want to work on. This drill press performs with extreme efficiency when your projects involve woodworking. However, if you plan to drill steel and metal daily, you may want to reconsider your choice.
Design
We are talking about a professional quality tool here. Its price may seem affordable and created for hobbyists, but this drill press has a professional aesthetic. The majority of the device is cast iron. In other words, this is a very durable machine that is not easy to transport.
The chuck may hold larger pieces that measure 5/8 inches. This particular feature is much more than what beginners need. The spindle stroke measures 3 1/8 inches, which means the user can drill anything less than the mentioned size.
Looking at the construction of the press, you will notice that the manufacturer paid a lot of attention to detail. Nevertheless, we were able to discover a few minor flaws.
The power cord could be longer. It would be more convenient to place the drill press on a mobile cart. There are three power handles, which is too much for most users, but fortunately, you can easily remove one or two of them.
Size
The size determines whether or not a drill press is suitable for your projects and goals. If the machine is too small, you can’t work with large materials or thicker parts. The Wen 4214 features a 12-inch throat depth swing.
It makes this drill press suitable for many home projects and professional use. The cast iron table is also generous at 9 ½ x 9 ½ inches. It allows you to place large materials on top of it.
The WEN 4214 drill press version is not the manufacturer’s biggest. This is the 12-inch size, but the WEN drill press also offers a 17-inch and a 15-inch drill press.
Construction
Most customers appreciate the construction of this drill press because it is of high quality. Most of the components consist of metal, making this drill amazingly sturdy. It is an incredible piece of a tool designed to endure for a long time.
Customer feedbacks
“The Wen is solidly built with a powerful motor, which I think is pretty quiet. So easy to use the variable speed.”
Angle
It will be easy to make bevel drills with the Wen 4214 drill press.
Also, you may adjust the bench to a 45-degree angle to the right or left, depending on your needs. After inclining the table, you can fix it at a specific angle. This provides a higher level of safety and increased accuracy.
Assembly
Once you open the box, you’ll see that the product requires your attention for assembly. Although the drill comes disassembled, it is not difficult to assemble all the parts because the components are easy and simple, you can place them into each other without any problems.
You do not need special tools or equipment to assemble this drill press. Once the installation process is complete, you need to mount the drill on your workbench, stand, or table before you start using it. Unfortunately, this is when you’ll discover that the package does not contain mounting bolts. So you’ll probably have to buy some separately.
The wisest thing to do, and we would definitely opt for, is to buy a rolling work stand and bolt the drill press to it. That way, it will be easier for you to move the tool around the shop and increase its portability.
In addition, the package comes with clear and easy-to-follow instructions and directions. Nevertheless, some might find it a bit tedious, especially if you have never done this before.
Price
It’s almost impossible to find a drill press as powerful as the WEN 4214 model, which is a very affordable price. Yet, somehow, the manufacturer creates this unique product at an incredible price. It’s hard to resist, especially for newbies or hobbyists who need extra features beyond what most bench presses provide.
The price of this product is competitive, and the cost is more than reasonable, especially considering the versatility, sturdiness, and overall quality of the press.
Is this Drill Press Easy to Use?
The overall construction is top-notch. The main part is designed with sturdy metal and a few components made of durable plastic (the part where the motor sits). This drill press will probably hold a long time.
The bottom part is made of cast iron, and it is wide. This makes it very stable when you are working with the tool. This component has mounting inserts that allow users to bolt the machine to their workbench for added stability.
Moreover, the press’s laser, which features an X pattern, illuminates the entire grilling area, making this tool easy to use and very accurate.
How to use it?
You need to know the location of the power switches. The table of the drill press should not contain unnecessary tools and materials. Avoid using dull drills and, make sure you always have sharp drills and working chucks.
Avoid using your hands to clean the drill press table. Use brushes. Never perform maintenance on the machine while the power cord is still plugged in.
Never attempt to insert a chuck wrench into the chuck if the tool is still powered on or has not stopped turning. Be sure your pieces are securely clamped in the vise or clamp.
In a situation where the workpiece moves after being clamped, do not hold the workpiece by hand.
Do not attempt to tighten the grip on the vise or clamp while the machine is turned on. Ensure the drill is turned off and has come to a complete stop before tightening the clamp or vise.
Use a speed appropriate for the material being drilled. To prevent the drill bit from hitting the table, use a clearance block and adjust the feed stroke. Always start slowly when inserting the drill bit into the workpiece.
Always turn the machine off and make sure it comes to a complete stop before leaving it for any length of time. Always keep the drill press clean and tidy.
Extra Features
You can comfortably pry or clamp the tool’s 5/8″ key chuck with a regular wrench. In addition, the chuck can accommodate more than just your regular drill bits. For example, you can use this press to make mortises by retrofitting a chisel holder or sanding pad.
This drill press is very versatile, and you can use it for many other projects besides drilling holes. In other words, it offers excellent value for money.
Advantages and disadvantages of the Wen 4214
This drill press has many advantages and only a few disadvantages.
o What We Like
• This drill has a large stable base that can be easily bolted to almost any workbench.
• The speed ranges from 580 to 3,200 RPM, making this drill press very versatile. In other words, it allows the user to work with many types of materials.
• There is a digital display on the front panel to read the speed.
• The table is adjustable. You can tilt it to the left or right up to a 45-degree angle for angular drilling.
• It has an X-pattern laser function that offers increased accuracy.
• The inductive motor is a powerful 5-amp, 2/3 HP motor that, in addition to wood, can also penetrate thin sheet metal without difficulty.
• The construction is made of metal and has excellent and very durable construction.
o What We Don’t Like
• This tool can hardly drill into thicker materials such as metal and steel.
For whom is it for?
Users looking for a sturdy, compact but powerful unit will appreciate the WEN 4214. It’s one of the most reasonably priced models available, and it stands only 12 inches high.
Despite its size, we still consider it not a heavy-duty press, just not as powerful as the higher-priced floor models or benchtop drills.
Should You Purchase WEN 4214?
There are plenty of compelling reasons to buy the WEN 4214 drill press, and there aren’t many cons associated with it. It’s an affordable tool for the work it does, and it provides a wide range of functionality when it comes to the tasks it can perform.
It’s a decent piece to have in your woodworking corner, workshop, and garage or tool room since you’re guaranteed to encounter the right project for the WEN 4214 to handle.
Bottom Line
The Wen 4214 drill press is a great tool that both experts and novices love to use. It is an economical alternative. Some professionals may find few inconveniences with this tool and slight disabilities, but amateurs and DIY lovers will enjoy it.
Ultimately, it all depends on what you need. If you need more power, you may want to check our guide to the 20 best drill presses to find a more powerful model.
On the other hand, the WEN 4214 is ideal for home use, making it perfect for artisans, DIYers, or anyone who needs a light-duty tool that won’t break the bank.
The bottom line, this drill press provides plenty of interesting and valuable features and is an affordable alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does WEN 4214 Operate as a Rotary Oscillating Sander?
If you have the appropriate shaft diameter for an oscillating sander. Then it is possible to utilize it in the spindle as a rotary oscillating sander. The oscillating feature is not a function of the drill press. It comes from the lateral movement of the sanding spindle
Is this Drill Press Belt Powered or Gear Powered?
The 4214 is belt-powered and uses metal pulleys for durability. The variable speed works very well with the belt system, and the LED readout is very accurate. It’s a very well-built system.
What are the Different Drill Press Spindle and Chuck Sizes for 8 and 12-inch Drill Press?
They are respectively 4- and 5-inches support.
Do I Have to Remove the Belt and Cover to Adjust the Speed?
The speed is adjustable and, you can control it according to your needs by removing the cover and the belt.
Can I remove the Drill Press Table?
Yes, you can remove the table according to your needs. You can place it in the direction you want.
